Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Research uses mobile technology to help people quit smoking

A mobile app developed by researchers at the University of Oklahoma uses real-time risk estimation to predict tobacco cessation lapses, achieving an 80% accuracy rate. The app combines six questions to identify lapse-risk factors and delivers tailored messages to help smokers overcome triggers.

SourceUniversity of Oklahoma·JournalJournal of Medical Internet Research·DateDec 2, 2016

Stop smoking! Quitting at any age reduces the risk of death after 70

A new study found that people aged 70 and older who continue to smoke are more than three times as likely to die as never-smokers. Quitting smoking at any age also reduces the risk of death after age 70, with former smokers less likely to die if they quit earlier.

SourceElsevier Health Sciences·JournalAmerican Journal of Preventive Medicine·DateNov 30, 2016

Flavors influence appeal and use of most tobacco products, especially for youth

Research found that non-menthol flavors in most tobacco products play a vital role in how users perceive and use tobacco products. Banning these flavors could reduce tobacco product use, especially among adolescents. The study also highlights the detrimental public health impact of adolescent use of flavored tobacco products.

SourceUNC Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center·JournalTobacco Control·DateNov 21, 2016
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

Apple iPhone 17 Pro delivers top performance and advanced cameras for field documentation, data collection, and secure research communications.

E-cigarettes may harm teens' lung health

New research found an association between e-cigarette use and persistent cough, bronchitis, and congestion in teenagers. The study suggested that even non-smoking e-cigarette users may experience respiratory symptoms, highlighting the need for further study on the long-term effects of e-cigarettes.

SourceAmerican Thoracic Society·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine·DateNov 17, 2016

Crop yield gets big boost with modified genes in photosynthesis

Plant biologists have increased crop productivity by modifying genes involved in photoprotection, allowing for more efficient use of sunlight. The study shows a 14-20% increase in modified tobacco plants, which could be applied to other crops like rice.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalScience·DateNov 17, 2016

Scientists tweak photosynthesis to boost crop yield

Researchers developed a method to increase plant productivity by boosting levels of three proteins involved in photosynthesis. In field trials, modified tobacco plants showed increases of 14-20% in productivity. The study confirms that improving photosynthesis can lead to higher crop yields.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalScience·DateNov 17, 2016

Stop-smoking services under threat as budgets are cut

Sixty-nine percent of local authorities in England have reduced funding for stop-smoking services due to budget cuts. These services are crucial for smokers' successful cessation, with specialists three times more likely to help them quit.

SourceCancer Research UK·DateNov 15, 2016
Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C)

Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C) provide clear calls and strong noise reduction for interviews, conferences, and noisy field environments.

Mutational signatures mark cancer's smoking gun

A study identifies telltale genetic fingerprints associated with smoking tobacco, demonstrating that smoking increases cancer risk by causing somatic mutations. The research found over 20 mutational signatures linked to tobacco smoking, with some signatures elevated in cancers from smokers.

SourceDOE/Los Alamos National Laboratory·JournalScience·DateNov 3, 2016

Mutation types in diverse cancers associated with smoking

Researchers identified distinct mutational signatures associated with tobacco smoke, including Signature 4 and Signature 5. These signatures are linked to specific types of cancer, such as lung and larynx cancers, and may be driven by a cytidine deaminase enzyme or other unknown mechanisms.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateNov 3, 2016

Smoking a pack a day for a year causes 150 mutations in lung cells

Researchers found that smoking one packet of cigarettes a day accumulates an average of 150 extra mutations in every lung cell, leading to increased cancer risk. The study also identified molecular fingerprints of DNA damage in smokers' DNA, revealing the complex mechanisms behind tobacco-related cancers.

SourceWellcome Trust Sanger Institute·JournalScience·DateNov 3, 2016

Scientists identify missing link between smoking and inflammation

Researchers found that nicotine activates neutrophils, leading to the release of inflammatory molecules and increased inflammation throughout the body. This discovery has implications for tobacco-related diseases and may suggest alternative forms of nicotine inhalation have detrimental effects.

SourceFederation of American Societies for Experimental Biology·JournalJournal of Leukocyte Biology·DateOct 31, 2016
Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars

Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars deliver bright, sharp views for wildlife surveys, eclipse chases, and quick star-field scans at dark sites.

Georgia State finds perception of e-cigarette harm growing among US adults

A study by Georgia State University found that the perception of e-cigarette harm among US adults has tripled over the last few years. Adult smokers now believe e-cigarettes are equally or more harmful than traditional cigarettes, a significant increase from nearly 12% in 2012.

SourceGeorgia State University·JournalAmerican Journal of Preventive Medicine·DateOct 26, 2016

Smokeless tobacco product snus may increase risk of death among prostate cancer patients

A new study published in International Journal of Cancer found that men with prostate cancer who used snus were at increased risk of premature death. Snus users had higher levels of nicotine and exposure to carcinogens compared to never-users, suggesting a potential link between snus use and prostate cancer progression.

SourceHarvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health·JournalInternational Journal of Cancer·DateOct 12, 2016

Understanding vaping behavior

A new study using a modified Smoking Analyser technology examines vaping behaviour in e-cigarette users. The results provide valuable insights into how vapers use e-cigarettes and can help establish standardized testing protocols for e-cigarette emissions.

SourceR&D at British American Tobacco·JournalScientific Reports·DateOct 10, 2016
Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only)

Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only) delivers reliable low-light performance and rugged build for astrophotography, lab documentation, and field expeditions.

Transgender women who begin hormone therapy more likely to quit smoking

A new study found that transgender women on hormone therapy have a higher rate of smoking cessation compared to the general population, with 64% of current smokers quitting after starting treatment. Researchers believe this may be due to the life-changing event of hormone therapy and the associated health risks.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalEndocrine Practice·DateOct 5, 2016

Smoking bans persuade light users to give up the habit

A new study shows that smoking bans in cities and states lead to a significant reduction in the number of young people who start or continue smoking cigarettes. The study found that light smokers are more likely to give up cigarettes after a ban is implemented, while heavier smokers were not affected by the ban.

SourceOhio State University·JournalJournal of Health and Social Behavior·DateOct 5, 2016

A talk with a nurse can persuade hospital patients to quit smoking

Research shows that trained nurses can significantly increase quit rates among hospital patients. The study found that patients who received coaching from a nurse had higher self-reported and lab-confirmed quit rates compared to those who did not receive similar training.

SourceOhio State University·JournalAmerican Journal of Preventive Medicine·DateOct 4, 2016
SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB

SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB transfers large imagery and model outputs quickly between field laptops, lab workstations, and secure archives.

College educated more likely to use e-cigs to quit cigarette smoking

A study by Georgia State University found that college-educated smokers are more likely to use e-cigarettes as a tool to quit smoking. The survey of over 1,200 smokers revealed that those with higher education levels were more intent on quitting and attempting to stop smoking in the past year.

SourceGeorgia State University·JournalAddictive Behaviors·DateSep 7, 2016

Heavy burden of EHRs could contribute to physician burnout

Physician burnout may be linked to heavy electronic health record (EHR) use. A recent study found that doctors spend nearly two additional hours on EHRs for every hour spent directly caring for patients, contributing to their physical and mental exhaustion. The burden of EHRs is a significant concern in the medical field.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateSep 5, 2016
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter is a trusted meter for precise measurements during instrument integration, repairs, and field diagnostics.

Internet and mobile devices prompt positive lifestyle changes

Research reviewed 224 studies on Internet and mobile device interventions, finding improved diets, increased physical activity, and modest weight loss over 3-12 months. Programs with goal-setting, self-monitoring, and healthcare provider interactions were most effective.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·DateAug 31, 2016

Bacteria in smokeless tobacco products may be a health concern

Research on smokeless tobacco products has identified several bacteria species associated with opportunistic infections, such as Bacillus licheniformis and Bacillus pumilus. These bacteria can produce toxins that cause illness in large quantities and may also contribute to the formation of carcinogenic compounds.

SourceAmerican Society for Microbiology·JournalApplied and Environmental Microbiology·DateAug 26, 2016
GoPro HERO13 Black

GoPro HERO13 Black records stabilized 5.3K video for instrument deployments, field notes, and outreach, even in harsh weather and underwater conditions.

Majority of US doctors discussing electronic cigarettes with their patients

A survey of US physicians reveals they frequently discuss e-cigs with patients, recommending e-cigs as a way to reduce smoking, but cautioning against using them to quit. However, the study found that many doctors are uncertain about their knowledge of e-cigs and are often asked by patients about their use.

SourceOxford University Press USA·JournalNicotine & Tobacco Research·DateAug 24, 2016

Ramen noodles supplanting cigarettes as currency among prisoners

A new study finds that inmates are using ramen noodles as a form of money due to declining prison food services, signaling a trend of punitive frugality. Inmates are trying to figure out ways to better feed themselves as services are being cut back, leading to the rise of underground economy practices.

SourceAmerican Sociological Association·DateAug 22, 2016

Protecting plain tobacco packaging against industry influence

A commentary in CMAJ cautions against tobacco industry influence on Canada's plain packaging consultation. The authors advocate for media vigilance and government requirements to disclose conflicts of interest and ensure submissions are backed by peer-reviewed evidence.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateAug 22, 2016
Creality K1 Max 3D Printer

Creality K1 Max 3D Printer rapidly prototypes brackets, adapters, and fixtures for instruments and classroom demonstrations at large build volume.

Researchers sequence genome of tobacco hornworm

The team's genome sequence will stimulate new research in molecular studies of insects and may lead to improved pest management methods. The sequenced genome provides insights into the tobacco hornworm's physiology, particularly its unique ability to evade insecticides.

SourceKansas State University·JournalInsect Biochemistry and Molecular Biology·DateAug 15, 2016

High schoolers with mental health issues more likely to use alcohol, tobacco, & marijuana

Research at Columbia University's Mailman School of Public Health found that high school students with psychiatric symptoms were more likely to use substances like alcohol, tobacco, and marijuana. The study highlights the link between mental health issues and substance use among teenagers in Brazil.

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·JournalAmerican Journal on Addictions·DateAug 2, 2016

A minute of secondhand marijuana smoke may damage blood vessels

A new study published in the American Heart Association Rapid Access Journal Report found that secondhand marijuana smoke can cause temporary damage to blood vessels, similar to tobacco smoke. Exposure to secondhand marijuana smoke lasted for at least 90 minutes, whereas tobacco smoke exposure recovered within 30 minutes.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·DateJul 27, 2016

Health insurance coverage is associated with lower odds of alcohol use by pregnant women

A study published in the journal Drug and Alcohol Dependence found that pregnant women with health insurance coverage had lower odds of alcohol use, while non-pregnant women with insurance had higher odds. The study also found that prenatal substance use poses significant threats to maternal and child health.

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·JournalDrug and Alcohol Dependence·DateJul 26, 2016
Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station

Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station offers research-grade local weather data for networked stations, campuses, and community observatories.

Shops openly flouting tobacco sales ban near schools in China

Researchers found that nearly all schools had at least one shop selling tobacco within a 100m radius, and marketing strategies targeting children were pervasive. Enforcement of the ban is needed to protect youth, and point-of-sale displays and advertising are urgently required in China.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalTobacco Control·DateJul 25, 2016

Smokers quitting tobacco also drink less alcohol

People who have recently attempted to quit smoking are more likely to try to drink less alcohol. They report lower levels of alcohol consumption and are less likely to binge drink compared to other smokers. This finding goes against the common assumption that quitters tend to increase their drinking.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalBMC Public Health·DateJul 21, 2016

Menthol-like cigarettes still sold in Canada despite ban

Researchers found that despite a ban on menthol cigarettes, similar products with green coloring and 'smooth taste redesigned without menthol' are being marketed to undermine the effectiveness of the ban. The study suggests that these tactics could have an adverse impact on public health.

SourceJohns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health·JournalTobacco Control·DateJul 20, 2016

Public health benefits of e-cigarette use tend to outweigh the harms

A modeling study suggests that e-cigarettes are likely to provide public health benefits for adults, particularly adolescents and young adults, who use them instead of smoking. The study found a 21% reduction in smoking-attributable deaths and 20% decrease in life years lost due to e-cigarette use.

SourceGeorgetown University Medical Center·JournalNicotine & Tobacco Research·DateJul 14, 2016
Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach

Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach provides rugged GNSS navigation, satellite messaging, and SOS for backcountry geology and climate field teams.

New clinical study shows exclusive e-cigarette use reduces exposure to harmful chemicals similar to complete smoking cessation

A new clinical study found that exclusive e-cigarette use significantly reduces exposure to harmful chemicals similar to complete smoking cessation. The study measured biomarkers in urine, blood, and exhaled breath, revealing reductions of over 75% in carbon monoxide levels and over 80% in volatile organic compounds.

SourceAspect Consulting·JournalToxicology Mechanisms and Methods·DateJul 12, 2016

Teen vaping could reverse progress in the control of tobacco

A new USC study suggests that some teens who never would have smoked cigarettes are now vaping, potentially reversing progress in tobacco control. The study found that tobacco use among teens in Southern California is on the rise, with nicotine experimentation becoming a major concern.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalPEDIATRICS·DateJul 11, 2016

Nicotine exposure during pregnancy nearly twice as high as reported

A new study reveals a significant gap between reported smoking during pregnancy and actual nicotine exposure, with 16.5% of women experiencing high-level nicotine exposure and 7.5% low-level exposure. The study highlights the importance of targeted public health efforts to decrease tobacco use among pregnant minority women.

SourceCincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center·JournalJournal of Perinatology·DateJul 7, 2016
CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock

CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock simplifies serious desks with 18 ports for high-speed storage, monitors, and instruments across Mac and PC setups.

ACA's tobacco surcharges reduce smokers' insurance take-up, study finds

A new study by Yale University researchers found that high tobacco surcharges under the Affordable Care Act reduced smokers' insurance enrollment rates, contrary to the ACA's goal of universal coverage. The study also showed no increase in smoking cessation among smokers facing these surcharges.

SourceYale University·JournalHealth Affairs·DateJul 6, 2016

Mixing cannabis with tobacco increases dependence risk, suggests study

A new study suggests that mixing cannabis with tobacco increases the risk of dependence and decreases motivation to quit. Cannabis users who prefer non-tobacco routes have higher odds of seeking help to use less cannabis and tobacco, indicating a lower risk of psychological dependence.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Psychiatry·DateJul 5, 2016

Jasmonate-deficient tobacco plants attract herbivorous mammals

Genetically modified tobacco plants lacking jasmonates are more susceptible to insect and vertebrate attacks, with a significant impact on reproductive ability. Rabbits prefer to feed on these plants, peeling the stems and reducing flower production, highlighting the importance of nicotine in plant defense.

SourceMax Planck Institute for Chemical Ecology·DateJun 29, 2016
Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro)

Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro) powers local ML workloads, large datasets, and multi-display analysis for field and lab teams.

Unproven claims run rampant in e-cigarette business

A new study finds that e-cigarette manufacturers make numerous unproven health claims, which may have a lasting impact on consumers. The FDA regulation aims to prevent such misinformation and ensure accurate information about e-cigarette use.

SourceOhio State University·JournalTobacco Regulatory Science·DateJun 27, 2016

Do you know what you're smoking? Research suggests that you don't

A study published in BMC Public Health found that nearly a quarter of US adults reported looking for information on tobacco constituents, with young adults and smokers more likely to do so. The research suggests that making this information available could improve public health and reduce tobacco use.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalBMC Public Health·DateJun 22, 2016

E-cigarette use can alter hundreds of genes involved in airway immune defense

A study by UNC researchers found that vaping e-cigarettes alters dozens of genes essential for upper airway immune defense, similar to cigarette smoking. This discovery suggests that inhaling flavored liquids in e-cigarettes has consequences on epithelial cell gene expression, potentially increasing the risk of respiratory problems.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina Health Care·DateJun 20, 2016
Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm)

Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm) tracks health metrics and safety alerts during long observing sessions, fieldwork, and remote expeditions.